New GDP series coming in 2026: MoSPI outlines major methodological changes, seeks feedback

First discussion paper focuses on production and income approaches; expenditure-method changes to follow.

India’s Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) on Friday released a discussion paper detailing proposed methodological changes to national accounts ahead of a revision of the GDP base year to 2022/23. The revised series will be published on Feb 27, 2026.

The update is being led by the Advisory Committee on National Account Statistics (ACNAS), chaired by economist B.N. Goldar. The committee includes representatives from central ministries, state governments, academic institutions, and research bodies, and has been tasked with recommending new data sources and updating compilation methods used in economic analysis and policy formulation.

Focus on production and income approaches

The first discussion paper outlines proposed changes to estimates using production and income approaches in both nominal and real terms. These include incorporation of updated datasets, refined measurement of sector-wise output and income, and adjustments to reflect structural changes in the economy over the past decade.

A second paper, to be released later, will focus on revisions to the expenditure approach.

Aim: Improve data quality and transparency

MoSPI said the papers are intended to give users of national accounts early visibility into methodological changes. It invited comments and technical feedback from economists, government agencies, researchers, and other stakeholders.

Committee mandate and context

The ACNAS was constituted to advise the ministry on inclusion of new data sources, improvements in estimation techniques, and the presentation of national accounts statistics. The revised series aims to align measurement practices with evolving economic structures and improve comparability for policy use.